Friday night at the Home Depot Center was definitely one of the most interesting soccer games I have been to. As you all know, there were two blackouts that caused serious delays for the game. Its’ not something you see a whole lot in professional sports, although I heard some people in the stadium talking about how it happens at baseball games sometimes. I will tell you this, we saw quite a few people in suits running around frantically in the dark.
All in all it was a great night for soccer. The conditions were perfect, the crowd was festive and we were able to catch up with a lot of friends as well as be present for a memorable night in MLS history.
Hit the jump for some more pics from the night.
As soon as we got inside the stadium we headed upstairs to catch up with some folks, and the first person we see is our boy Allen Hopkins. Hops was getting a little pre-match grub in before the meal and we caught up on all things MLS. Allen is a good dude and it’s always good catching up with him. Looks like him and Dunny are having a staring contest!
Over by Section 137 we caught up with Jamesey and got introduced to LA Riot Squad member “Mama.”
We headed down to the field to take some pictures and catch some of the action up close. We were posted up in “snapshot alley” where all the professional photogs are situated taking shots of the action. The folks down here are all pros and have some of the biggest camera lenses I have ever seen. In the foreground is isps and his camera…in the background is the camera of one of the professional shutterbugs. Spot the difference?
While we’re down on the field, the first blackout happens. It was kind of crazy seeing the lights randomly turnoff in a stadium. You have no idea what to make of the situation. There was also a collective gasp that instantly happened from the crowd. Here’s Donovan Ricketts trying to stay loose in the dark.
The lights going out once was crazy, but twice was pretty unthinkable. I really don’t think too many people knew what to make of the situation. I’m curious to hear what they were saying on the telecast about the situation…
After all lighting fiascos, we ended up hanging out in the Riot Squad’s section for a little bit. They were in full voice and were buzzing the whole time. The supporter culture in the US is filled with passionate people who care about their team and the sport and are helping drive both. Hats off to all of you.
We were back on the field when Berhalter knocked in the game winner.
Congrats to both teams on their seasons, and best of luck to the Galaxy and RSL in the finals! For any of you that will be in Seattle, let us know. We’ll be up there and have a couple things being planned!
